When the term “domestic violence” is brought up, many people only think of physical abuse. However, according to Texas law, there are many ways that abuse can happen. Other types of domestic violence include psychological, financial, sexual, and emotional. 

When it comes to domestic abuse, knowledge is power. For those who are accused of domestic abuse, it is important for them to be aware of the different types so they can be better prepared to defend themselves against their charges. 

Different Types of Domestic Violence

Physical Abuse

One of the most well-known accusations regarding domestic violence involves allegations of physical abuse. Physical abuse includes hitting, kicking, punching, or choking. Although it is often thought that these actions need to end with bodily injury, that is not the case. Taking part in behavior that does not result in the other person requiring medical treatment could still be seen as domestic violence and result in the proper charges. 

Psychological Abuse

Psychological abuse is seen as behavior that results in fear or is perceived as threatening or intimidating. In most cases, the other individual will be more likely to press charges when such instances are viewed as severe and persist. 

The following are examples that could end in criminal action being taken for psychological abuse:

  • Emotional blackmail
  • Threats of violence
  • Preventing another person from leaving
  • Discouraging or preventing talking with other people

Financial Abuse

If you or a loved one has prevented a spouse from working or receiving an education, then you might find yourself facing accusations of financial abuse. Since household resources are usually shared, a spouse might complain of financial abuse in a troubled relationship. Even though this type of abuse is less heard of, the possible consequences are just as serious. 

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is known as rape or sexual assault and can also include unwanted touching. Other possible examples are forcing a partner into getting an abortion or not using birth control. A lot of people do not know how broad sexual abuse can be interpreted until they are facing sexual abuse charges. 

Emotional Abuse

Forms of emotional abuse include overly critical, humiliating, and insulting behaviors. In many instances, an accuser is more likely to go after abuse charges when an additional form of abuse is present. Otherwise, emotional abuse can be difficult for accuser to prove. 

Technological Abuse

Technological abuse has been drawing a lot of attention in recent years. Examples of technological abuse could include accusations of using text or social media to harass, bully, or intimidate a partner. Since texting and social media play a huge role in peoples’ lives, accusations of technological abuse are becoming more common. 

Who Can File Domestic Violence Charges in Texas?

Texas domestic violence charges are usually associated with spouses or intimate partners. However, the statute can also apply to the following: 

  • Other household members
  • Relations by blood or affinity
  • Foster parents/children
  • Present or past dating partners

Consequences for Domestic Abuse

There are a variety of consequences for domestic violence, including the following: 

  • Domestic assault: considered a Class A misdemeanor if the defendant does not have any prior convictions. It can be a third-degree felony if there are prior convictions.
  • Aggravated domestic assault: considered a second-degree felony and includes major physical harm or assault with a deadly weapon. Aggravated assault resulting in a major injury is a first-degree felony. 
  • Continuous violence against the family: considered a third-degree felony and involves 2 or more assaults in a year. 

The consequences for these crimes are severe and range from a year in jail for a Class A misdemeanor all the way up to 99 years for a first-degree felony. A Class A misdemeanor can charge fines up to $4,000 and penalties for the felonies can go up to $10,000. All these charges have huge legal and financial consequences. 

These are not the only negative consequences for someone who is charged with domestic violence. Simply being arrested can result in strained relationships with loved ones and can cause an individual to lose their job. Other negative results could include evictions, immigration status issues, and loss of professional licenses. 

There are major consequences that go along with a domestic violence charge, and you do not want to go at it alone. Hiring a bail bondsman can help relieve stress for you and your family. The experts at AAAA Discount Bail Bonds would like to help you understand the bail bond process. Call us today at (936) 539-4444 so we can help you or your loved one be on their way to being released from jail while waiting on court dates. Being released on bail will allow you to spend time with the ones you love and enjoy the time you have with them. Call us now!